Monday, January 26, 2009

No Spender's, we are in the home stretch! Can you believe in less than a week we will have completed our first NSM!? It hasn't always been easy that's for sure but oh how rewarding it has been...wow!

I just want to say that I am pleased with our accomplishments. I wasn't real sure if we could do it and for the most part, we exceeded my original expectations. Though, I was motivated to begin my first 'NSM', down deep I was a bit worried if I would be able to follow through.

I've had some unplanned for expenses, that I've learned to plan for, for the following NSM's. I've even had a few weak moments. Still, eating out a couple of times this month is nothing compared to the 10+ times we would typically eat out.

I went into our little grocery store twice this month, compared to the twice weekly I would have usually done. I didn't even set foot into the local Kmart, which I would do weekly and drop a minimum of $50.

There were no real temptations for me because we didn't have money sitting in our account with no place to go. I spent all but $50 of it on bills. That is really the way to go in my opinion. For me, I just don't do well with having a lot of money in my bank account so for my next 'NSM', I will do it the same way and just spend all the money on bills.

Lets finish strong this week! Ending our first 'NSM' with a bang! No matter what your personal goal was for the month, just thinking about where you are spending your money is a very good thing. Thinking twice about making a purchase will help so much in improving your financial situation.

My boys are anxiously awaiting February and some chinese food!! I can't say I succeeded with not-spending-extra, but I did certainly suceed in our eating out - only two times this month. Huge improvement - HUGE. New goal for the new month.....don't know yet....

Psalm 31:1-5

1) In you, O Lord, I have taken refuge;let me never be put to shame;deliver me in your righteousness.2) Turn your ear to me,come quickly to my rescue;be my rock of refuge,a strong fortress to save me.3) Since you are my rock and my fortress,for the sake of your name lead andguide me.4) Free me from the trap that is set for me,for you are my refuge.5) Into your hands I commit my spirit;redeem me, O Lord, the God of truth.========================

Lord I thank you for showing us this verse which speaksso deeply to what we are going through at this time inour lives. We praise YOU and take refuge in YOU, dear Lord.